I noticed something odd in our yard that morning. It initially appeared to be only a toy because it was too still and had an odd design.
To get a better look, I even moved closer. But all of a sudden, that “toy” started to move slowly.
I was so terrified that my heart almost stopped.Without thinking, I hurriedly made a fast video and fled. I made the decision to find out what it was after I was safe. When I discovered the reality after posting the video online, I was appalled. I’m just so relieved that nothing happened to me.
It was discovered to be a Gaboon viper.
I sincerely thanked God for letting me leave so fast since things might have turned out quite differently if I had lingered or attempted to touch it.
A Gaboon viper: what is it?
The heaviest venomous snake in the world and one of Africa’s most dangerous snakes is the gaboon viper (Bitis gabonica).
It can fit in nicely with fallen leaves thanks to its amazing camouflage, which makes it almost invisible.
Unsettling facts:
Reaching up to two meters in length
Weight: eight kilos or more
Fangs: the longest of any snake, reaching up to 5 cm
Venom is incredibly potent, destroying tissue and causing coagulation.
Behavior: typically quiet and not aggressive without reason, but it attacks right away if someone steps on it or disturbs it.
tiny mammals and birds are the prey; occasionally, a hedgehog or tiny antelope is swallowed whole.
The Gaboon viper rarely attacks people, usually only when they are startled by its frightful weaponry. However, the odds of survival are very low in the absence of antivenom.
Thus, yes. When I say that morning might have been my last, I mean it.
